Maun selects strong squad for big clash with Bulldogs

Andrew Hunt

Danny Maun believes the Heavy Woollen Select will have their strongest squad on duty when they face Batley Bulldogs on Sunday (ko 2pm).

Batley ran out 68-6 winners in last season’s inaugural clash but Maun believes his squad are far stronger and better equipped this time around.

Maun, who will coach the Heavy Woollen side along with Birstall Victoria’s Richard Hunter, said: “We have some of the Thornhill lads playing this year and they make us much stronger.

“Danny Ratcliffe and Luke Haigh have played at this level and I believe Joel Gibson could walk into any League One side and several Championship squads.

“I have told all the lads, this is a massive chance to get noticed and it is up to each of them what they want to get out of the game.

“For some, that could mean saying they have played against Batley but for others it is a real chance to showcase their talent.

“This will be the Heavy Woollen’s third game together, having played Batley and then beaten the RAF side last season.

“I’d like to see more games for the Heavy Woollen representative team and think a series involving the Leeds, Wakefield and Castleford District representative sides could be a great idea.”

Maun is also on the coaching staff at Batley and, while he will be in the Heavy Woollen camp on Sunday, the former centre knows the game is also an important part of the Bulldogs pre-season.

Maun added: “I want us to go out there and try to test Batley in certain areas.

“We had a good training session on Monday and none of the lads seemed fazed about coming up against professional opposition, although I expect a few of them will be nervous when they get to the ground on Sunday.

“I’m really looking forward to the game and excited about seeing how a few of our younger lads get on.

“There is some real talent in this area and it is a chance for some of these players to make an impact and get noticed.”